Georgia VanNewkirk’s “Blue Velvet” is a luscious dream of a song and it’s only fitting the the video matched. It’s about being vulnerable and diving into your emotions. The video shows her drifting through hazy visions: a church and a park, like going through her memories. We talked to her about the song and what challenges she faces in the music industry.
You’ve worked as a costume assistant, what made you want to pursue music?
Georgia: Music is something I have always been passionate about, I just never looked at it as a serious career path until recently. I love being creative and working in the creative field so whether it’s costumes, graphic design, photography or music I have always poured my whole heart into everything I do.
How did your friends and family react?
Georgia: The people who know me well we’re not shocked, but most everyone else was completely surprised. It was super cool to show a different side of myself and to connect with people on a different level than I had before.
Tell me about “Blue Velvet” what’s the story behind the song?
Georgia: Simply put, blue velvet is the story of how I fell in love. It details my journey of meeting someone new, the hesitancy to be vulnerable, and then my fall into the blue velvet abyss. The song is so special to me because it reminds me of all of the little moments that make up my love story.
What has been the biggest challenge for you in the music industry?
Georgia: I am very new to the industry so I have not experienced most of the challenges that are typical of other artists, but a huge issue I face is patience. I always want to rush to finish a song, rush to release, need to write more, and am disappointed when I am not consistently pumping out new material. My team always reminds me to trust the process and to be patient with myself, to be articulate and to allow time to reflect. This is something I am constantly learning and trying to overcome, but in my career it’s been my biggest obstacle.
What has been inspiring you lately?
Georgia: Honestly, the wave of killer female artist and their albums this year have been inspiring me. I mean Lizzo, Billie Eilish, King Princess, Maggie Rogers?? These ladies are on fire right now. I just listened to Lana Del Ray’s Norman Fucking Rockwell in its entirely on a long drive, and her storytelling is beyond. The caliber of women in the industry is phenomenal and seeing these artists, listening to their songs and following their stories has been so exciting to watch. I hope that I can tell my stories in the way that they do, and to inspire others with authenticity.
What’s your best piece of advice for young women?
Georgia: Love yourself. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Be nice to yourself. It seems obvious but these are things that I need to remind myself of every day.
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